The Dáil has affirmed its support for Larry Murrin, Chairman of Bord Bia, following a motion proposed by Sinn Féin seeking his removal from the position. The Government opposed the motion and successfully amended it to express support for Mr. Murrin, which passed with 88 votes in favour and 61 against.
Political Backing Amidst Protest
The vote comes as members of the Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA) continue to protest at Bord Bia headquarters on Pembroke Road in Dublin, calling for Mr. Murrin’s resignation. The controversy stems from revelations that his company, Dawn Farm Foods, sourced 1% of its beef from Brazil last year.
Last week, the Tánaiste accused Sinn Féin of “looking for a head but [vowing] they would not get one,” stating, “This is not about food on the table, it is about a head on a plate.”
Conflict of Interest Concerns
Farming groups, including the IFA, the ICSA, and the ICMSA, have voiced concerns over a potential conflict of interest. They argue that Mr. Murrin’s position at Dawn Farm Foods is incompatible with his role at Bord Bia, given the agency’s mandate to promote Irish food.
Dawn Farm Foods has stated that the Brazilian beef accounted for less than 1% of its total beef supply in 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the motion against Larry Murrin?
Sinn Féin proposed a motion calling for Mr. Murrin’s removal after it was revealed that Dawn Farm Foods, the company he leads, imported 1% of its beef from Brazil.
How did the Dáil respond to the motion?
The Government opposed the motion and amended it to express support for Mr. Murrin. The amended motion passed with 88 votes in favour and 61 against.
What are the concerns raised by farming groups?
The IFA, ICSA, and ICMSA claim a conflict of interest exists due to Mr. Murrin’s dual role at Bord Bia and Dawn Farm Foods, given Bord Bia’s responsibility to promote Irish food.
As the debate continues, will the ongoing protests and calls for resignation ultimately influence Mr. Murrin’s position at Bord Bia?